Primitive camping near Garrison, Montana offers access to numerous dispersed sites along forest service roads within a 30-minute drive. The area sits at elevations between 4,500-6,000 feet in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, creating varying conditions throughout camping seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with cool nights even during July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite provides excellent creek access for anglers. One camper noted, "Easy access to the creek for fishing. Great little fire pit," though they cautioned about trailer access being challenging for those with minimal backing skills.
Mountain biking: Homestake Pass Dispersed features extensive trail networks. A visitor mentioned, "There are MTB OHV and walking trails nearby," making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The area sits just minutes from the highway on relatively smooth roads.
Explore ghost towns: Historical sites like Garnet Ghost Town Dispersed Camping offer glimpses into Montana's mining past. A visitor explained, "This ghost town is complete with still stocked shops, empty hotels with beds left in and slowly aging buildings." Remember camping restrictions apply within a half-mile of the town itself.
What campers like
Secluded spots: At Scott Reservoir Dispersed, campers appreciate the solitude and views. One reviewer shared, "Great place to camp for overlooking the reservoir. Ran into one local taking pictures but left soon after. About 4-5 rock fire rings fairly close together."
Accessibility: Many dispersed sites around Garrison can be reached with standard vehicles. At Elliston Dispersed Camping on Forest Road 314, one camper reported, "The access when you turn off at Elliston is not clearly marked but there is only one road that turns off there so it's not too difficult to get on the right road."
Wildlife viewing: Free-range cattle frequently visit campsites in the area. A camper at Homestake Pass noted, "One morning a bunch of cows came through my site, which was amazing." Others report seeing various wildlife, though bear activity means proper food storage is essential.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes vary significantly in quality. At Racetrack Dispersed Campsite, one camper warned, "Road in was 100% washboard, but the campsite was decent. Had to traverse a lot of private property to access it, and the locals do not appear to be friendly."
Seasonal closures: Some areas have winter gate closures. A camper at Elliston Dispersed Camping reported, "Gate is closed, I'm assuming for the winter? Anyways, camped next to the gate there's a little pull out. But not ideal."
Water sources: No reliable drinking water exists at dispersed sites. For longer stays near Butte, a camper suggested, "I do not recommend getting water from Butte other than from 'Ultimate Big Spring Water' which cost $15 for 5gal with a jug."
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: At remote sites, cell service varies greatly. At Homestake Pass, one family noted feeling safe: "As a single female tent camping I felt very safe here." However, another camper cautioned about suspicious activity: "Three trucks drove by our spot and parked just staring at us and would leave."
Best river sites: Little Blackfoot River 2nd Disperse Campsite offers smaller, more manageable spaces for families with younger children. A reviewer described it as "a small level area for a tent of mid sized RV. The site has a large rock fire ring in the center."
Weather preparation: Temperature swings can be extreme, especially at higher elevations. Pack layers and rain gear even in summer. One camper at Elliston noted, "I took the first site, just off road. Rocky, no tent stakes. Beautiful sunset, no neighbors. Full Sun though you could go down among the trees I think."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some dispersed areas can accommodate larger rigs. At Racetrack Dispersed Campsite, a camper mentioned, "Came in with our 28' travel trailer and had ample room for turning around etc."
Bridge concerns: Some forest roads have questionable infrastructure. A visitor to Rock Creek Dispersed Spot warned, "We would have felt really uncomfortable crossing even the first bridge, which had a bit out of its concrete edge, as though it had been hit by an elephant-sized tumbling boulder."
Generator etiquette: In popular dispersed camping areas like Homestake Pass, generator use should be limited. One camper observed, "Some 'locals' who seem to live out there and run generators 24/7," suggesting campers be considerate with noise.
